Save a Ukrainian Family

For the past week, I have been completing VISA applications for a Ukrainian Family fleeing the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

My family has offered to sponsor their entry into the UK, where they can then claim asylum. Thankfully they are fortunate enough to have family already settled in the UK and therefore qualify for the Family VISA scheme. I have now successfully submitted applications on their behalf, pending acceptance by the Home office. In the coming days, we hope following a successful crossing of the Polish Ukrainian border; I shall be travelling to collect them and bring them home safely to be reunited with their Family in the UK. In the interim, we must travel to the VAC centre in Warsaw, Poland, to complete the biometric process before heading home to the UK. If you wish to learn more about our progress thus far, please tune in to the Xpress Radio Cardiff Podcast, where, in my interview with Tom Atkins, I emphasise the failings of the UK VISA schemes and the Plight of the Ukrainian people.

My interview can be found at 36:00 minutes in; follow this link. although I encourage you to listen to the whole episode. https://www.mixcloud.com/xpressradio/ukraine-special-through-cardiffs-eyes/?fbclid=IwAR1BrUK2FHLfF7LYeoRxOQ24wK4g3TH_0GfxW1aaBToXBcLlAWZ1pKbqdU8

However, many other families are not so fortunate and are looking for sponsors outside of the family scheme. I encourage any firms, like-minded individuals or collectives to consider Sponsorship. Details can be found on the Gov Website, scroll down to "the Local Sponsorship scheme" subheading. the scheme is still to be implemented fully, so check regularly for updates. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/support-for-family-members-of-british-nationals-in-ukraine-and-ukrainian-nationals-in-ukraine-and-the-uk#full-publication-update-history

This mission will be costly; my family are happy to fund the costs of accommodation, food and travel as we attempt to bring them home safely and, once in the UK shall see them housed and fed. However, any donations towards these costs would be greatly appreciated. To make the most of our travels, we shall also be transporting donations to fellow refugees at the border crossings. To donate items, please search for your local donation points on community pages and online, respectively, or make direct donations to the organised charities.

Let's wish Little baby Anna, Her big sister Natalia and their dearest Mother Mariia a warm welcome to the UK, and pray they be reunited with the Father and Husband again soon.

Thank you for your Support and Prayers.

Anton Schembri,

Slava Ukraini